Toasting Traditions: Valentine’s Day

After several years of lackluster, yet exorbitantly expensive, dinners out we decided to see what fun we could have with the money if we stayed in instead. It turns out, the average American man will spend around $250 on gifts for the annual holiday. And, the average city-dwelling American date ends up running around $400-$500 per couple. Wow! Noah and I decided early on that the uncharges for holiday dates just weren’t worth it. That could be airfare to Paris… And, we’d rather use it that way. Fast forward to 2021, and most Americans should be staying home anyway! So, let some “boring” stay-at-home V-Day veterans help you spice up your holiday as a couple (and a bonus near the end for my single friends, too!).

Toasting the Moon in Red Hook, Brooklyn

Pre-Civil War warehouses + Ports + No Subway + Transportation wasteland in NYC = The perfect location for creatives. What happened to all of the artists in New York City? … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in Red Hook, Brooklyn

Toasting the Moon in Rockaway Beach

I think Rockaway Beach feels like home to those who typically make fun of beach holidays. Those who might be considered cynical. Those who might say, “IDGAF about my reputation.” Those who have more vinyl and leather than rompers and flowers. Those who have escaped their Caribbean roots. Those who value a pint over a mojito. I think this is the Rockaway crowd. They’ll let you have South Beach, just leave them and their beach alone.

Wandering and Wondering in NYC

Lastly, this week was the last Manhattanhenge of 2020. It happens four times a year, twice for sunrise and twice for sunsets, where the sun is perfectly centered between the buildings for a glorious view of the city and the moment in time. The clouds put a little bit of a damper on our view of our first Manhattanhenge, but we still saw a pretty amazing sight!

Escape Quarantine with Themed Nights-at-Home

Are you celebrating? I think that finding reasons to throw a party (no matter how small) is especially important in times of high stress and crisis. I’ve noticed that on the days I create a “special occasion” in our house, both of our spirits are lifted. If you have children, it’s even MORE important to create a bit of normalcy in celebratory ways. And, if you’re alone, find a reason to bust out the champagne and special chocolates! YOU are worth it!

Questions on Quitting Quarantine

I can only picture going back into the world being a little bit like Groundhog’s Day. I think that when the time comes, it will be difficult for me to not see my shadow and run right back into my cave.

United We Stand – Apart

The light at the end of this tunnel shines brightly. Don’t think this is end. The earth is using this time; it’s healing itself. People around the world are coming together to show compassion and love for their fellow man. Animals are taking over their natural habitats and enjoying their time for freedom. And, we will too. This too shall pass.

Toasting the Moon At Home: Week 3 of Quarantine During COVID-19

Travel memoirs are by far my favorite genre. Sometimes they’re romantic and whimsical, sometimes they’re political and poignant, but they always offer a reminder that we often have to step out of our routine to find the best parts of life.